TMCnet News
Matrix Chambers' Internet platform goes commercial(Legal IT)In common with most generic web content management systems, Persephone allows users to create a range of online communities, so that the same system can efficiently run a private intranet, a client extranet and a public website. However, its developers stress that the system is designed specifically for law firms and barristers' chambers. The system can publish news, press releases and partners' or members' CVs to the general public, while allowing for more restricted dissemination of sensitive information, such as for minutes of senior management committee meetings, or a community set up for a particular legal case. Matrix Chambers worked closely with digitalTMW on the development of Persephone and has now completed its implementation of the system, which it has used to launch a new public website: www.matrixlaw.co.uk. Matrix also uses Persephone to deliver its internal legal updates service, and to communicate effectively, via intranet and extranet, with its clients and academic members. The chambers will also be using Persephone to manage online discussion forums and document lists. Ross Taylor, digital director at digitalTMW, said two organisations - including another set of chambers -- were considering buying Persephone. He said: "The volume of information used in law is mind-blowing, so with Persephone we have created an online resource which makes it simple and fast for even the most technophobic solicitor or barrister to find what they are looking for." He added: "As Matrix wanted a very fluid system, we created Persephone to be extremely simple to update and manage. Now we have set the whole system running and have loaded up initial content, Matrix [members] can very easily update and manage communities, content and information themselves." Hilary Rochford, legal information manager at Matrix, said Persephone had proved to be "a complete solution for our website, intranet and extranet needs." She said: "Matrix members and staff with little or no web publishing skills can now set up online communities to share information simply and effectively." |